The Testosterone Therapy and Prostate Cancer Myth

The widely studied topic on the link between male testosterone treatment and the occurrence of prostate cancer has raised several interesting facts. Men who are facing the problem of low levels of testosterone, are the ones who undergo short-term testosterone treatment (TT). Several reviews are available on studies done over this topic by experts. According to these reviews it is stated that short term treatment of testosterone will not cause prostate cancer growth.

History on the relationship between TT and prostate cancer

According to the research studies done by Dr Charles B Huggins, a famous urologist at the University of Chicago in 1940, it was identified that low testosterone levels initiated prostate cancer to shrink and increasing testosterone levels instigated it to grow.

Some Facts about Testosterone treatment and Prostate cancer

These facts were stated as per studies done in more than 2300 men. The widespread belief that TT can lead to prostate cancer growth is around 60 years old. Some men, as they get aged may develop the issue of low testosterone levels and in order to gain it back they undergo TT. As per studies it is proved that the levels of prostate-specific antigens (PSA) were more expected to increase, in a short term TT carried by transdermal application (through a patch) than treatment with a placebo. Although more detailed research is necessary to prove the long term effects, TT is generally considered to be safe as a short term treatment as it does not stimulate prostate cancer growth or progression.

Current situation of TT and Prostate cancer

The most important thing is, there is no solid evidence that TT leads to the growth of new cancer of the prostate. Some studies indicate that normal testosterone levels can even guard a person from developing prostate cancer. Moreover, a host of studies also suggest that low testosterone levels before prostate cancer treatment is an independent forecaster of more forceful top grade cancer. The Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) or testosterone depletion is a general treatment for prostate cancer, although it does not prolong the lives of people with low-risk prostate cancer.

Precautionary measures to maintain testosterone levels

Watch out for symptoms of low testosterone levels like low sexual desire, reduced energy levels and memory problems, as these are strong indicators of low testosterone levels. If you are over 50 with these symptoms, then it is necessary to check the total testosterone and free testosterone levels.

In case you are diagnosed with low testosterone levels, it is advisable to undergo TT, but only under efficient medical supervision.

TT is actually a shield to the problem, it is not a cure but a temporary solution. The real solution to the problem can be achieved by making substantial changes in the lifestyle.

Some common culprits for low testosterone levels are lack of physical activity, inadequate sleep, high levels of stress, obesity and many more such problems, which are the typical causes of heart problems as well.

Conclusion

If you have undergone the treatment because of undetectable PSA as part of your prostate cancer, for two years or more, then you are a likely candidate for TT, but again using bio identical testosterone therapy.